Police have released the name of a man who went missing after being swept from a flooded causeway in Alice Springs overnight.

Police received a report just after 8.30pm that 43-year-old Cedric Anderson and three female companions were walking across the Palm Circuit causeway when he was swept away by flood waters over the road. The three females managed to cross safely.

Police, Fire and Rescue crews and NTES volunteers began a search for the man last night, but the search was suspended just after 10.30 pm when they failed to find any sign of him. The search resumed at first light this morning and currently continues using ground crews and a helicopter with trained police air observers. Ground crews are searching the banks of the river and inquiries are being undertaken at town camps to determine if the man has managed to make it back to safety.

Mr Anderson, who normally resides at Little Sisters Camp, is described as being of Aboriginal appearance, 170cm tall with a medium to heavy build, dark complexion with greying hair and a beard. He was last seen wearing a purple shirt with yellow stripes on the sleeves and dark pants.

Anyone who may have seen Mr Anderson or who has information about his whereabouts is asked to call police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media contact:
Theresa Kuilboer
8951 8825
0419 803 603